Pre-Arrival Information

and Campus Guide

For International Students
2017
A Word of Welcome
Dr Pinkie Mekgwe
Executive Director,
Division For Internationalisation
The University of Johannesburg (UJ)
extends a warm welcome to you, as an
international student, and invites you
to become an active member of the UJ
community. You are joining a university
that is young, vibrant, and was built on
the footholds of possibility, tenacity,
and a can-do attitude, all of which are
attributes that it shares with the city it is
located in, and whose name it carries:
Johannesburg. Make time to get to know
this cosmopolitan city, and claim it rightly
as your home.
You are now a member of an institution
that upholds excellence in all facets of its
work and life. You will be wholly supported
in order that you can excel in all your
academic pursuits. As an international
student, you have the opportunity of a
life time to attain well-rounded education
that goes beyond the academic. An
international education imbues you with,
amongst others, attributes of adaptability,
for personal, social and intercultural
flexibility, and cultural fluency: the soft skills
growth, so richly afforded by our campus
so sought after by employers world-wide.
life and the broader Johannesburg
Your international education at UJ then,
community and South African society.
sets you on a path to be highly competitive
as a graduate. It also prepares you for The Division for Internationalisation is your
leadership, entrepreneurship, innovation, home-away-from- home. It is your first port
and creativity, all of which accord you of call as you enter the university,
the tools to lead; to be an employer; to
and remains a resource for your support
contribute positively to humanity, at home
throughout your time at UJ. Make use of all
and beyond.
the opportunities that UJ offers you.
Your presence at UJ is highly valued and
Seek assistance when you are in doubt.
you stand to contribute to cultural diversity
Most of all, claim your place of excellence
as well as academic enrichment which are
and open your mind to the UJ notion of
the hallmarks of our internationalisation
programme. We trust that you will find your being a shape shifter in your own right:
stay enjoyable, hospitable, friendly and an rethink, reinvent.
enriching academic and social experience. Welcome!
We encourage you to seek opportunities
Content
PAGE
1 About UJ 18 Facilities
1 Education for the 21st century 18 Auckland Park Kingsway Campus
2 First-year Experience 20 Doornfontein Campus
20 Auckland Park Bunting Road Campus
2 Facilitating teaching and learning
21 Soweto Campus
2 Campuses of the University of Johannesburg
21 Other Services
2 Division for Internationalisation 21 Protection services
2 International Admissions and Welfare Office 23 Access control
4 Academic Calendar for 2017 23 Campus Health
23 Inter-Campus Transport
5 Registration 2017
5 Arrival 24 South Africa
5 Registration procedures for 2017 24 Location
7 First-year Seminar 24 Climate
24 Currency
8 Study Visa 24 Credit cards and travel cards
8 How to apply for a Study Visa 24 Taxation
9 Endorsement of relatives visa 24 Electricity
9 Changing conditions of a Study Visa 24 Telephone & Internet communication
9 Fees 25 Time
11 Banking details 25 Banks
11 Undergraduate students 25 Foreign exchange
11 Postgraduate students 25 Living in S.A.
13 Financial assistance 26 Public transport
13 Medical Aid 26 Emergency Information
13 Comp-Care 26 Procedure
13 Momentum Health 26 Police Services
15 Accommodation
16 The Buddy System
16 What is a buddy System?
18 Culture shock
18 Homesickness
18 Socials
18 Annual International Festival
 About UJ
The University of Johannesburg was
established on 1 January 2005. It is the result
of the incorporation of the Soweto and East
Rand campuses of Vista University into the
Rand Afrikaans University which took place
on 1 January 2004 and the merger of the
Rand Afrikaans University (into which the
two Vista campuses had been incorporated)
and the Technikon Witwatersrand on 1
1 January 2005, to create the University of
Johannesburg (UJ).
Pre-arrival Information and Campus Guide for International Students - 2017
The Technikon Witwatersrand had been in
existence since 1925, the Rand Afrikaans
University since 1967 and the Vista University
since 1982. UJ has four campuses spread
over Central Gauteng: the Auckland Park
Kingsway Campus (APK), the Doornfontein
Campus (DFC), the Auckland Park Bunting
Road Campus (APB), and the Soweto
Campus (SWC). A fifth campus, the East Rand
Campus is currently dormant. With over 48
000 full-time students and 3 000 permanent
employees, it is one of the largest residential
universities in South Africa.
The incorporation and merger, which led
to the establishment of the University
of Johannesburg, was part of a major
programme of the restructuring of higher
education in South Africa. The National Plan
for Higher Education, published in 2001,
charted a course for a major revamp of
South African higher education institutions.
The most important consequence of the
restructuring exercise conducted by the
Department of Education was the reduction
of thirty-six universities and technikons to
twenty-three higher education institutions.
This reduction was achieved by mergers and
incorporations of existing higher education
institutions, the planning and implementation
of which was executed from 2002 to
2004. The final decision of the Minister of
Education on the restructuring of higher
education institutions was published as
Government Notice 855 in the Government
Gazette of 21 June 2002. As a result of the
restructuring exercise, South Africa now
has eleven traditional universities (offering
traditional formative degree programmes),
five universities of technology (offering
vocational and professional programmes)
and six comprehensive institutions
(offering both formative degree programmes
and vocational programmes).
The University of Johannesburg falls in
the category of comprehensive institution.
The term comprehensive institution is
an instrument of educational policy and
has no statutory definition. Each of the
comprehensives has developed an identity
that best suits their own strategic objectives.
Education for the 21st century
As one of the largest residential
universities in South Africa without distance
education programmes, the University
of Johannesburgs teaching and learning
programmes result in degrees and diplomas
in an array of subjects, ranging from Fine Arts
to Engineering, from Business Management
and Accounting to Haute Couture and
from Theology to Homoeopathy. The
University has nine faculties located in
greater Johannesburg and it accommodates
a diverse student body on four campuses
located in Doornfontein, Auckland Park,
Bunting Road and Soweto. Although these
campuses are fairly recent additions to the
urban landscape of the city, each is located in
an area that made a significant contribution
to its history and growth. For example, the
campus in Doornfontein was developed
in the heart of one of Johannesburgs
oldest suburbs, which was laid out in 1889,
shortly after the discovery of gold on the
Witwatersrand. The Soweto Campus, where
major development commenced in 2008,
is set to become the flagship of the new
generation university and will contribute
significantly to its surroundings. The Bunting
Road and Kingsway Campuses in Auckland
Park, a suburb laid out in 1895, have brought
a vibrant new student population to this
suburb.
First-year Experience
Facilitating Teaching and Learning
As all students enter university with the aim
of attaining a tertiary qualification, UJ seeks
to support first-year students who need to
negotiate the transition between school
and university successfully, if they are to
succeed academically.
Both internationally and specifically in the
South African context, students tend to
find this challenging, resulting in many
students dropping out during the first
year. In response to this challenge, UJ has
implemented a First-year Experience (FYE)
initiative. The FYE aims to create an ethos
and a way of life at UJ that will facilitate
effective student transition from school
to university. It supports an institutional
climate and culture that is conducive to
first-year students success. The FYE
assists and guides students to take up the
challenge of adapting to university life and
becoming fully fledged and productive
members of the UJ academic community.
Division for Internationalisation
Your home away from home, one of
the main purposes of the Division is to
integrate international students into UJ
student life. This is done on the following
levels:
Social interaction (International Festival,
excursions)
Student exchange programme
Communication (newsletter, sms service,
liaison with embassies, etc.)
Student support (buddy system, UJISS,
orientation programme)
Study abroad
Please join the group UJ Division for
Internationalisation on Facebook to keep
up to date with developments in
the Division.
The FYE gives strong motivation for the
attendance of the First-year Seminar (FYS),
the implementation of tutorials, and the
Residence Academic Adviser programme
(RAA) which provides students with
opportunities for active learning and critical
discussion of themes and topics, as well as
opportunities for making friends.
Campuses of the University of
Johannesburg
These campuses are: 2
Auckland Park Kingsway Campus at the
corner of Kingsway and University Road
Pre-arrival Information and Campus Guide for International Students - 2017
(APK)
Auckland Park Bunting Road Campus,
Bunting Road, Cottesloe (APB)
Doornfontein Campus at the corner of
Siemert and Beit streets (DFC)
Soweto Campus at Old Potch Road,
Soweto (SWC)
Website
Further information is available on the UJ
website: http//www.uj.ac.za
International Admissions and
Welfare Office
APK
Mr Tshepang Marumo
+27 (0)11 559 2096
Supervisor: International Admissions
A-Ring 423
tshepangm@uj.ac.za
Mrs Mampou Ngqumshe
+27 (0)11 559 4517
International Admissions Officer
A-Ring 424
mampoum@uj.ac.za
Ms Shantelle Sass
+27 (0)11 559 3129
Academic Liaison and Student Welfare
Officer
A-Ring 424
ssass@uj.ac.za
 APB providing liaison services for
international students and faculties;
Ms Palesa Makwela
liaising with all South African Missions
+27 (0)11 559 1027
(Embassies, High Commissions,
International Admissions Officer
Consulates, Trade Missions) and the
Room 104, Con Cowan Building
South African Department of Home
pmakwela@uj.ac.za
Affairs
DFC social integration through orientation
Mr Thabang Mothebe and student activities
+27 (0)11 559 6510 welfare services
International Admissions Officer The International Admissions and
G 70, Maropeng Building Welfare Office is there to ensure that all
3
thabangm@uj.ac.za international students are provided with
SWC necessary support for the duration of their
Pre-arrival Information and Campus Guide for International Students - 2017

studies at the University of Johannesburg.

+27 (0)11 559 5014 You can contact or visit the International
ADB 107, Ukhamba Building Admissions and Welfare Office for any
You can contact or visit the International compliance related issues, e.g. study
Admissions and Welfare Office for any permits and medical aid requirements.
compliance related issues, e.g. study
permits and medical aid requirements.
The International Admissions and Welfare
Office is located on all four campuses and
is responsible for:
advising prospective students about
programmes offered at UJ and all legal
requirements;
clearing admitted international students
for registration;
Academic Calendar for 2017
University re-opens for support employees
Enrichment and academic development pro-
grammes for UJ students
Academic employees, not involved in enrichment or
academic development programmes, resume duty
Academic Research
Supplementary Assessment
Online off-site registration opens
Special Assessment
Tue 2017-01-03
Tue 2017-01-03 Fri 2017-01-06
Mon 2017-01-09
Mon 2017-01-09 Sun 2017-01-29
Mon 2017-01-09 Fri 2017-01-13
4
Mon 2017-01-09 Fri 2017-02-03
Wed 2017-01-25 Tue 2017-01-31

Pre-arrival Information and Campus Guide for International Students - 2017

1 Year Seminar
st
Tue 2017-01-31 Fri 2017-02-03
First Semester Mon 2017-02-06 Fri 2017-05-19
Mid-semester Vacation Sat 2017-04-08 Mon 2017-04-17
Study Period for students Sat 2017-05-20 Wed 2017-05-24
1st Semester final assessment and consolidation Thu 2017-05-25 Thu 2017-06-15
of results
Winter Vacation Fri 2017-06-16 Sun 2017-07-09
Academic research Mon 2017-07-10 Fri 2017-07-28
Programmes for international students hosted
by UJ
Study-abroad programmes for UJ students
Enrichment and academic development
programmes for UJ students
Supplementary assessments Mon 2017-07-24 Fri 2017-07-28
Second Semester Mon 2017-07-31 Fri 2017-11-10
Mid-semester Vacation Sat 2017-09-16 Sun 2017-09-24
Study period for students Sat 2017-11-11 Fri 2017-11-17
2nd Semester final assessment and consolidation Sat 2017-11-18 Tue 2017-12-05
of results
Summer Vacation for students Wed 2017-12-06

Last date for publishing of November assessment Mon 2017-12-11

module results
Last date for publishing of November assessment Wed 2017-12-13
global results
Summer Vacation for Academic and Support em- Sat 2017-12-16
ployees
 5
Registration 2017
Pre-arrival Information and Campus Guide for International Students - 2017
Arrival
Plan to arrive between 20 and 24
January in order to settle in, acclimatise
and find accommodation. Students can
be collected upon arrival at the Airport,
they should inform the Division for
Internationalisation at least one week prior
to their arrival and provide their full flight
details. The Division will need to make
arrangements with the University Transport
Department for the pick-up of students
that will require the service.
Registration procedures
for 2017
If you are a first-time student registering
at the UJ, please consult with your faculty
for registration details.
Registration for all first-time entrants to the
University of Johannesburg will be from
23 January until 03 February 2017.
First-year students will register from
23 January until 03 February 2017.
During the First-year Seminar (FYS),
please consult your faculty about your
registration date.
IMPORTANT: Admitted or Conditionally
admitted international applicants are
requested to inform the University of
the circumstances preventing them from
registering on the given registration date
to avoid forfeiting their admission at the
University. Notice should be submitted one
week before the given registration date;
failure to adhere to the University request
will result in your admission being given
to a national applicant meeting the
admission requirements on a first-
come-first-serve basis.
Registration information can be found
on the Universitys website or can be
requested from the faculty. First-time
registering international students are
not able to register online. Enquiries for
all international postgraduate students
residing in their home country for the
duration of their studies should contact
the Division for Internationalisation at
+27 (0)11 559 4517 or mampoum@uj.ac.za.
Please carefully follow the steps set
out below when you arrive on campus
to register. You need to report to the
International Student Admissions and
Welfare Office FIRST for clearance
before continuing to register.
Step 1
To avoid long queues, you may
opt for an electronic international
clearance by emailing your certified
documents as stipulated below, to
internationaladmissions@uj.ac.za
When reporting to the International
Student Admissions and Welfare Office
please ensure that you bring the following
documents:
Important documents
your valid passport;
the appropriate valid study, work or
relatives visa endorsed to study at the
University of Johannesburg;
proof of your medical aid cover,
registered and administered in South
Africa, and paid in advance in the year
of study;
 a valid Asylum Seeker Permit, Refugee
Permit, Refugee Identity Document
or Permanent Residence Permit no
medical aid cover is required;
proof of payment. All international
students need to pay 30% upfront, the
remaining 70% need to be paid in the
following instalment terms:
35% at the end of April 2017
35% at the end of July 2017
In case of 100% upfront payment, student
will qualify for a 5% discount.
You will find the International Student
Step 3
Proceed to the registration venue for the
authorisation of your registration, capturing
information and to receive your proof of
registration.
The registration venues are as follows:
APK D 1 Lab Basement
DFC Perskor Building
APB FADA Building
(FADA Students)
6
APB Con Cowan Building,

Pre-arrival Information and Campus Guide for International Students - 2017

Admissions and Welfare personnel at the
following venues during registration:
APK D-1 Lab K08
DFC Perskor Building, Room G300
APB Con Cowan Building, Lab C
SWC Robert Sobukwe Building GNA07
Step 2
(Management, Economics
and Financial Sciences)
SWC Robert Sobukwe Building
Step 4
Proceed to get your student card issued
at the following venues:

Present the proof of the payment of your APK D Lab 208

fees to the Student Finances Department. DFC Perskor Building
Payment should include tuition fee,
APB Con Cowan Building
registration fee and the international levy.
After submitting proof of payment, you SWC Robert Sobukwe Building
may proceed to the registration venue. You
will find Student Finance at the following
venues:
APK E-Ring 102
DFC Perskor Building, 2nd Floor
APB Con Cowan Building, Lab D
SWC Robert Sobukwe Building GNA07
 7
First-year Seminar (FYS)
The University of Johannesburg would
Pre-arrival Information and Campus Guide for International Students - 2017
like to welcome all its new first year
undergraduate students!
An informative and compulsory First Year
Seminar programme has been arranged
for all our new first years, beginning with
the Deans Welcome address, academic
orientation to the Faculty, the Department
and the specific programmes for which
students have been accepted. Students
will get to meet lecturers, receive their
time tables and get to know their fellow
students and the campus they will be
studying on. The First Year Seminar
programme is available from www.uj.ac.
za/fys, then click on your Faculty and will
also be sent out with the Registration
Information packs.
The First Year Seminar is also when
students will be introduced to the wide
range of academic development and
support services the University offers the
Library and Information Centres, Reading
and Writing Centres, the Computer
Facilities, Psychological Services and
Career Development and the Career
Resource Centres. These services aim to
take our students from Good 2 Gr8!
Students will learn about the dedicated
team looking after their safety and about
the services available to them via the
Health Clinics situated on each campus.
The First Year Seminar is not just about
the very important academic aspects of
student life: it is the time to join Student
Societies, get involved in the many cultural
activities, join one of the many sport clubs,
join the gym or become a member of a Day
House. Whats that, you say? Youll find out
during the First Year Seminar.
Academic registration
Undergraduate Registration for first years is
from 23 January to 03 February 2017.
Postgraduate Registration will take place
from the 16 January to 03 February 2017. In
order to ensure that the registration
proceedings are successful, it is imperative
that students adhere to the registration
schedule, except for unforeseen
circumstances preventing you from
registering on the set date.
For procedures regarding late arrival,
please refer to page 5.
International student orientation
International students are assisted to
adjust to their new environment. In the
orientation programme provided by the
Division for Internationalisation, the main
focus is on the international students
needs and providing students with vital
information and a tour of the campus
and city surrounds. This orientation is
compulsory for all students.
All sessions for FYS (orientation) are
compulsory. Please visit: www.uj.ac.za/fys
for more Information.
Lectures begin
6 February 2017.
Study Visa
How to Apply for a Study Visa
It is advisable to apply 60 days before the
expiry of your current visa when applying
within South Africa through VFS Global.
The link for lodging your online application
is as follows: http://www.vfsglobal.com/
dha/southafrica/
When applying through VFS, kindly select
Corporate Account.
All International applicants who will
be applying outside South Africa can
submit their applications at the South
African Visa issuing authority (Embassy,
High Commission, Consulate and Trade
Mission) in their country of residence. If
there is no South African representative in
your country, you are advised to apply at
the nearest South African Embassy, High
Commission, Consulate or Trade Mission.
The following documents are to be
submitted with the study visa application
at the visa issuing authority to obtain your
study visa:
1. A passport valid for not less than 90
days of the expiry of your visa.
2. Administration fee equivalent to the
value of R425.
3. If you apply within South Africa
then you will pay R425 plus R1350
(VFS Administration Cost). Outside
8
South Africa, you pay R425 only.
4. Confirmation and proof of payment
Pre-arrival Information and Campus Guide for International Students - 2017
of a South African medical aid cover
with a medical scheme registered with
the SA Medical Schemes Council.
Cover must remain valid for the
duration of the calendar year.
5. Letter of Offer from the University
stating the duration of degree,
 confirming that the student is not
taking the place of a local student and
undertaking to inform the Department
of Home Affairs when the student
deregisters.
6. A medical and radiological report
(less than six months old).
7. Yellow Fever vaccination certificate,
if applicable.
8. Relevant certificates if married,
widowed, divorced or separated.
9 a study visa
9. Details regarding arranged
accommodation while in South Africa.
Pre-arrival Information and Campus Guide for International Students - 2017
10. Proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition
fees and maintenance.
11. A police clearance certificate for the
past 12 months from the country you
have lived in for a period exceeding
12 months after the age of 18.
Applicants are advised to keep a copy
of their submission documents and all
receipts safely.
Endorsement of relatives visa
Please be informed that with effect from
the 1st of May 2015, a holder of a valid
temporary residence visa issued for the
categories mentioned below will be
allowed to register and undertake part-
time studies with institutions of Higher
Learning as defined by the immigration
Regulations of the Immigration Act, 2002
(Act No. 13 of 2002) during the validity
period of their respective visas.
a) General work visa
b) Critical Skills work visa
c) Intra-company transfer work visa
d) Business visa
The holder of a Relatives Visa is still
required to get their visa endorsed for
part-time studies. The requirements are
listed below:
BI1739 Application for the endorsement
of a Relatives Visa
There is no cost for the endorsement
Letter of acceptance/firm offer letter
from the University
Original passport and work permit
Proof of medical aid
Proof of finance
Confirmation of employment letter or
contract
Changing conditions of
A change of conditions of a study visa
refers to a situation where one holds a valid
permit to be in the Republic other than to
study at the University of Johannesburg.
This is usually the case of learners and
students studying at South African high
schools, colleges and other academic
institutions and their visas would therefore
be endorsed with a condition to study at
institutions in any of the categories above.
In order to register at the University of
Johannesburg the visa will need to be
issued in the name of the University.
Application for change of conditions of a
study visa constitutes a new application
for a study visa. Though the applicant will
need to complete a separate form, the
requirements are the same as for the initial
application of a study visa.
Refer to the following website: http://www.
vfsglobal.com/dha/southafrica/
Fees
Please note: When an international
student is accepted for study at UJ, the
student is required to pay 30% upfront,
the remaining 70% need to be paid in the
following instalment terms:
35% at the end of April 2017
35% at the end of July 2017
All students (local and international) who
register at the University of Johannesburg
are required to pay a non-refundable
registration fee and ICT levy of R1040.
Pre-arrival Information and Campus Guide for International Students - 2017
 Please pay your fees at the bank before proceeding to the UJ. Alternatively, fees can be
paid at the Student Finance Offices on all four campuses. However, for safety reasons,
students are encouraged to pay the fees by means of bank transfers at least twenty days
prior to coming to South Africa.
Please consult with your relevant faculty office for a full pro forma invoice.
Kindly refer to pages 6 and 9 for Fee Structure.

Banking details
University of Johannesburg Banking Details
Account holders name: University of Johannesburg
11 Bank name: ABSA
Account number: 2840189565
Branch code: 335105
Pre-arrival Information and Campus Guide for International Students - 2017

Reference on deposit slip: Your student number

Swift Code: ABSAZAJJ
The physical address of the UJ is:
Corner Kingsway and University Road, Auckland Park, Johannesburg, 2092.
Fax: +27(0)11 559 2866
The following fees are payable before registration:

Undergraduate students
Students from African countries:
Prescribed tuition fees plus an international levy of R2 000.
Students from other countries:
The prescribed tuition fees plus an international levy of R17 000 per year.

Postgraduate students
All postgraduate students pay the tuition fee as prescribed plus
an international levy of R2 000.
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 Financial assistance
Financial aid is not available to
undergraduate international students.
However, merit bursaries are automatically
awarded to deserving full-time international
students from SADC countries from their
Medical Aid
All international students need to comply
13 with the visa regulation as determined by
the Immigration Act, Act 19 of 2004.
Pre-arrival Information and Campus Guide for International Students - 2017
Regulation 10 (1) (i) determines the
following:
An applicant for a study permit is required
to provide proof of medical aid cover with
a medical scheme registered in terms of
the Medical Schemes Act, Act 131 of 1998,
recognized in the Republic.
Although you may, with some other
international insurance or medical product,
secure a study permit from a South African
visa issuing authority, the University of
Johannesburg, in accordance with the
Immigration Act, does not recognise such
medical cover for registration purposes.
The University requires proof of full medical
aid cover with a South African based
medical aid scheme from the first day of the
month in which a student seeks registration
to the 31st of December of that year.
Study abroad and exchange students
must secure medical cover for the
duration of their stay. A minimum of six (6)
months cover is provided by medical aid
companies.
Month-to-month medical aid cover will
only be acceptable from dependents on
submission of the confirmation letter from
the main members medical aid service
provider undertaking to make monthly
contributions and to provide proof of these
contributions to the University on a monthly
basis.
It is thus advisable that international
students make the necessary financial
second year of study. All international
students are eligible for postgraduate
bursaries and should apply. For more
information, you may enquire from the
Bursary Division, Student Finance and the
Postgraduate Centre.
arrangements for the medical aid cover
prior to entry into South Africa. Should
the student rely on a sponsorship, he/she
should ensure that the sponsor is advised
of the requirement at the onset of the
sponsorship of the admission offer from the
institution. Most institutions do not accept
a letter from the sponsor in lieu of payment.
Payment for the required medical aid cover
fee is made directly to the medical aid
company, separately from the tuition fee.
The following are medical aid companies
with developed student-focused products
that are registered in terms of the
Medical Schemes Act. They offer the
minimum benefits that a student may need
while in South Africa. These schemes
have weekly consultation sessions on all
campuses throughout the year.
CompCare
+27 (0) 82 651 4610 or +27 (0) 11 208 1000
www.studentplan.co.za or student@
universal.co.za
esther@estmed.co.za
Momentum Health
+27 (0) 83 308 1081 or +27 (0) 012 671 8511
www.ingwehealth.co.za
neville.govender@momentum.co.za
Other Medical Schemes
You are welcome to visit the website of the
Medical Schemes Council in South Africa to
explore other medical cover options.
The address is http://www.medicalschemes.
com/Consumer/Trustees.aspx .
 Pre-arrival Information and Campus Guide for International Students - 2017
14
 Accommodation
Please note: If you have applied for campus accommodation and you have not yet
received a confirmation of allocated accommodation, you may have to make alternative
arrangements. The subdivision of Student Accommodation and Residence Life sends
confirmation letters by October to all students who have applied and who have
been accepted.
As an alternative to University accommodation it is suggested that you obtain
private accommodation. It is important to note that the Division for Internationalisation
does not accept responsibility for any possible problems arising from a students
private accommodation.
15 The Division is able to help identify University approved private accommodation.

APK:
Pre-arrival Information and Campus Guide for International Students - 2017

RESIDENCE
MALE / FEMALE PLACEMENTS OFFICER EXT EMAIL
TYPE/NAME
Thomas Sankara Post Graduates Bonny Tshabane 2065 vtshabane@uj.ac.za
Faranani Post Graduates Bonny Tshabane 2065 vtshabane@uj.ac.za
Afslaan Sport Bonny Tshabane 2065 vtshabane@uj.ac.za
Junior Residences Male Nondumiso Xaba 3022 nxaba@uj.ac.za
Junior Residences Female Daleen Strydom 2092 daleens@uj.ac.za
Sophiatown Mixed Maryka Kirstein 1566 mkirstein@uj.ac.za
APB:
RESIDENCE
MALE / FEMALE PLACEMENTS OFFICER EXT EMAIL
TYPE/NAME
Junior Residences Female Maryka Kirstein 1566 mkirstein@uj.ac.za
Junior Res Male Maryka Kirstein 1566 mkirstein@uj.ac.za
Goudstad Post Graduates Bonny Tshabane 2065 vtshabane@uj.ac.za
Mayine Post Graduates Bonny Tshabane 2065 vtshabane@uj.ac.za
SWC:
All residences: Mhlobo Hoyi x5015 (mhoyi@uj.ac.za)
DFC:
All residences: Veronica Ngobese x6552 (veronican@uj.ac.za)
Off-Campus Accommodation:
Please access the following link https://goo.gl/MPbQ6t to view Accredited Off Campus accommodation
 16

Pre-arrival Information and Campus Guide for International Students - 2017

The Buddy System
What is a buddy system?
The University of Johannesburg Buddy System is a special programme that was established
for the purposes of providing support to international students and ensuring cultural
integration. All new international students are paired with a buddy for support in navigating
the University systems and Johannesburg in general. The duty of a buddy stretches further
than just the new student. They introduce the new student to the culture of UJ and South
Africa through social events and excursions. All buddies report to a Buddy Coordinator in
the Division for Internationalisation. The Buddy Coordinator will take up matters with the
Division for Internationalisation should the need arise.
All buddies are trained in orientation matters, cultural immersion and mentoring.
 Who can apply to be a buddy?
Any registered student of the University of
Johannesburg, whether South African or
international. The applicants should at least
be in their second year of study.
Advantages of being a buddy
Formal training from the Centre
for Psychological Services and
Career (PsyCaD).
A certificate after completion of
the term as a buddy, proving extra-
17 curricular participation at the University.
An impressive entry on your CV.
The opportunity to learn about
Pre-arrival Information and Campus Guide for International Students - 2017
international cultures.
The opportunity to build international
contacts.
The following characteristics are required
from a buddy
Social responsibility
Good interpersonal skills
Empathy/sympathy
Sensitivity to other religious beliefs and
cultures.
Committed to the duties of being a
buddy
Role and tasks of a buddy...
A buddy should:
treat students with respect;
hold a positive outlook towards South
Africa and the UJ;
help international students adapt
academically, by providing information
about UJ. This information includes
services to international students,
the Library, PsyCaD, Academic
Development, the University
of Johannesburg International
Student Society (UJISS), the Student
Representative Council (SRC) and the
relevant faculties;
assist international students to adapt
socially by introducing them to friends,
exposing them to cultures in South
Africa and introducing them to societies
on campus;
instil a sense of belonging to
international students;
take the students on a campus tour;
provide guidance and support to
students;
provide basic information to students,
such as public transport (bus routes),
medical facilities, shopping centres,
other information that could make the
day-to-day life of the students more
manageable;
meet with students on an informal basis
as often as possible;
meet once a month with the assigned
students on a formal basis on a date set
up by the Buddy Coordinator;
meet with the Buddy Coordinator a day
or so after the formal meeting with the
students to discuss relevant matters;
report any problems, complaints or
suggestions that might need attention
to the Buddy Coordinator. The Buddy
 Coordinator will in turn report it to the
Division for Internationalisation for
further investigation and/or action;
attend feedback sessions at the end
of each term with the Division for
Internationalisation;
participate in a final written evaluation
at the end of September.
Culture Shock
Coming to a new country is both exciting
and somewhat nerve-wrecking. The key to
preventing undue stress is to allow oneself
to ease into the new environment and to
ask questions. In South Africa especially,
the people around you will be glad to help.
Attend the orientation programme
and make full use of the student buddy
assigned to you by the Division for
Internationalisation.
Homesickness
When the excitement wears off, a person
is confronted with daily life in his/her new
environment, where everything can be
quite different from what you are used to
back home. Make use of our buddy system
to meet new people, make friends and get
to know your new environment. PsyCad
is also available to help you deal with
homesickness.
Socials
The Division for Internationalisation,
the buddies and the University of
Johannesburg International Student
Society (UJISS) arrange several social
events for international students during
the two weeks of registration. By attending
these events, international students can
meet one another.
Annual International Festival
The Annual International Festival
is presented by the Division for
Internationalisation with the assistance of
the international students in September.
The International Festival has always been
a great success. International students
are given the opportunity to showcase
their various cultures to the UJ student
community. You are encouraged as an
international student to bring traditional
recipes, traditional costumes and other
items from home representing your country
for this wonderful event.
Facilities
The University of Johannesburg supports
the academic and informal student life by
providing a range of facilities for student 18
use. The various campuses have modern
facilities that enable students to use the
Pre-arrival Information and Campus Guide for International Students - 2017
latest technology in education, training and
research.
Auckland Park Kingsway Campus
Library
The library on the APK-campus houses over
540 000 volumes and serves more than
32 000 users (students and staff members).
The library caters for the academic and
research needs of students. From books
and periodicals to electronic resources and
the Internet, you will find almost everything
you might be looking for.
Upon registration, international students
have access to the University libraries on
all campuses.
Computer laboratories
The extensive computer labs offer students
not only desktop facilities, but also Internet
access. These facilities are situated at E-Les
2 as well as at the D laboratories.
Lecture halls
The lecture halls are mainly situated in
buildings B (red), C (orange) and D (yellow).
These lecture halls are referred to as Les
and the administration offices as Ring. The
lecture halls are equipped with all the latest
audio-visual equipment.
Information technology
Technologically, the Auckland Park
Kingsway (APK) campus is one of the
leading campuses in Southern Africa.
A multi-functional teaching-learning model
that has been developed, integrates
traditional lecture-based approaches
with technology-based opportunities, to
achieve the goal of learning improvement.
Students also have access to free WiFi
on campus.
Student Centre
The Student Centre on the APK campus
houses more than 30 shops, including
banks, ATMs, bookshops, a medical
doctor and a dentist, a computer store,
postal, courier and photocopy services,
a hairdresser, a convenience store, many
fast-food outlets, and a meal-of-the-day
restaurant to cater for all tastes.
Sports facilities
Athletics stadium (Tartan track): seats
10 000
6 rugby fields and a clubhouse
3 soccer fields and a clubhouse
5 hockey fields and a clubhouse
(including an Astroturf field)
3 cricket fields and a clubhouse
facilities for netball, basketball and
tennis courts with floodlights and a
clubhouse
5 squash courts and a clubhouse
1 sports hall (indoor)
1 recreational sport facility (including an
action cricket court)
1 aerobics facility
International students are welcome to
participate in any of the sports offered at
the University. For any enquiries regarding
sport participation, please call
+27(0)11 559 3068/1308
Doornfontein Campus
Library
The Lesley Boyd Library on the DFC
campus can accommodate about 430
learners. Photocopy services are also
provided at the library. Upon registration,
international students have access to the
University libraries on all campuses.
Lecture halls
A total of 84 lecture rooms providing 5 142
seats are available on this campus. The
lecture halls are equipped with all the latest
audio-visual equipment.
Internet Caf Style Cyber Centre
Various computer laboratories provide
students access to educational software,
the internet and email.
Convenient shopping
20
There are two cafeterias for both staff
and students on campus. The campus
Pre-arrival Information and Campus Guide for International Students - 2017
shop sells stationery, art materials, mobile
phone packages as well as mechanical
and architectural drawing equipment. This
shop offers services such as binding, colour
copying and the printing of T-shirts. ATMs
are also available on the campus. ATMs are
also available on the campus.
Sports facilities
This campus has squash courts that are
open to staff, students and the public.
Most sport facilities are situated at the APB
campus so that the Sport Management
students could have easy access to train,
gym, etc. For any enquiries regarding sport
participation, please call +27(0)11 559
3068/1308
Auckland Park
Bunting Road Campus
Library
The APB Library can accommodate about
475 learners who want to study, while all
students and staff are welcome to use the
library services at any time. Photocopy
services are available on the Ground
Level of the library. Upon registration,
international students have access to the
University libraries on all campuses..
 Laboratories
Our computer labs offer students not only
desktop facilities, but also Internet access.
These facilities are situated at B RED 45 as
well as at the Green Block laboratories.
Lecture halls
A total of 55 lecture rooms providing 4 412
seats are available on this campus. The
lecture halls are equipped with all the latest
audio-visual equipment.
21 Information technology
Various computer labs give students access
Pre-arrival Information and Campus Guide for International Students - 2017
to educational software, the internet and
email. The Cyber Centre on the APB
campus is situated at the Upper Level of
the library.
Coffee shop and restaurant
The coffee shop and restaurants on the
APB campus deserve special mentioning,
run by the School of Tourism and
Hospitality, they double as training facilities
for Food and Beverage Management
students. The School moved into its
own newly built facility with high-tech
equipment and the promiseof world class
catering. The restaurant is open to both
staff and students for reservations.
Sports facilities
Most sport facilities are situated on
the APB campus so that the Sport
Management students can have easy
access to train, gym, etc.
1 Grass athletic track field
1 Cricket field
4 Soccer fields and a clubhouse
Basketball courts
Softball field
Gymnasiums
Indoor volleyball court
1 Aerobics facility
For any enquiries regarding sport
participation, please call
+27(0)11 559 3068/1308.
Soweto Campus
Library
The Library can accommodate
approximately 430 learners. Photocopy
services are also provided at the Library.
Upon registration, international students
have access to the University libraries on
all campuses.
Lecture halls
There are 28 lecture halls with 3513 seats.
All lecture halls are equipped with the
latest audio visual equipment.
Information Technology
There are 10 computer labs with more
than 900 computers. These laboratories are
situated at the Robert Sobukwe and
Braam Fischer buildings. Added to this
we have 60 computers at the Library
with internet access.
Other Services
Protection Services
The University Protection Services provide
a 24-hour security service to students on
all campuses. The Protection Services staff
respond to emergency calls and investigate
reports of theft, harassment and other
crimes that are reported to them. Students
are advised not to walk in deserted places
on or off campus, particularly at night.
Hitchhiking is extremely dangerous and
forbidden by law.
APK
Library bridge basement
Telephone no.: +27(0)11 559
2555//2000/3400
 Pre-arrival Information and Campus Guide for International Students - 2017
22
 APB first aid (for any medical emergencies
23
Main entrance please call Protection Services):
Telephone no.: +27(0)11 559 1312 APK +27(0)11 559 2555//2000/3400
Pre-arrival Information and Campus Guide for International Students - 2017

APB +27(0)11 559 1312

DFC
Main entrance
Telephone no.: +27(0)11 559 6450/6085
SWC
Main entrance
Telephone no.: +27(0)11 559 5555
Access control
Access to the campus is controlled by
means of a central university card and a
students finger print. This card is also used
for access to some residences, computer
labs, and the library. This card is also
referred to as a student card. The card is
issued to a student once the registration
process has been completed. Student
cards are issued by the Enrolment Centre.
If a card is lost, a student may obtain a new
card after an administration fee has been
paid. If a student should experience any
problems to access a facility, the student
should contact Protection Services.
A student should not lend his/her card t
o another student, or use another
students card.
Campus Health
The University offers health services for
both staff and students. Services include:
consultation and referral;
health education and promotion;
DFC +27(0)11 559 6450/6085
SWC +27(0)11 559 5555
screening and monitoring chronic
conditions, e.g. blood pressure
monitoring, blood sugar, cholesterol,
anaemia and urine testing;
pregnancy testing;
HIV/AIDS counselling and testing (VCT).
Consultation hours are from Mondays to
Fridays from 08:3015:30. You need to call
on the day to schedule an appointment.
Consultations are free of charge.
Telephone numbers for Campus Health
Services on all four campuses:
APB +27(0)11 559 1238
APK +27(0)11 559 3837
DFC +27(0)11 559 6544/6132
SWC +27(0)11 559 5571
Inter-campus transport
Transportion is provided between the DFC,
APB, APK and SWC Campuses.
There is a student shuttle service that
travels between these campuses during
week days. Bus schedules will be available
upon registration.
South Africa
Location
South Africa lies at the southern tip of the
African continent between latitudes 22
and 35 south. It is flanked in the west by
the Atlantic Ocean, in the south and the
east by the Indian Ocean, in the north by
Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe, and in
the north-east by Mozambique
and Swaziland.
Climate
The climate is mostly sunny and temperate,
and the average number of sunshine hours
each day is among the highest in the world:
8,5 compared with 3,8 in London, 6,4 in
Rome and 6,9 in New York. Winters are
mild and clear, although snowfall often
occurs on the higher mountain ranges
of the Cape and KwaZulu-Natal, causing
brief cold spells in the surrounding areas.
The south-western Cape Province enjoys
a Mediterranean climate (dry summers
and winter rainfall). In general, the rest of
the country experiences summer rainfall
usually in the form of short afternoon
thunderstorms. As the country lies in the
southern hemisphere, seasons are the
reverse of those prevailing in the northern
hemisphere.
Average maximum temperatures in
degrees Celsius for some of the major
cities (tourist centres) are:
Summer Winter
Cape Town 26 17
Bloemfontein 29 16
Durban 28 21
Johannesburg 28 17
Kimberley 32 18
Nelspruit 29 22
Pretoria 29 19
For more accurate information, please visit
the South African Weather Bureau website:
www.weathersa.co.za
Currency
The South African currency unit is the
Rand, denoted by the symbol R. (R1.00 =
100 cents.) There is no restriction on the
amount of foreign currency you may bring
into the country, but it must be declared at
Customs & Excise when you arrive.
Credit Cards and Travel Cards
MMost international credit cards such as
American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard
and Visa are accepted, as well as travel
cards. Foreign currency is accepted in 24
South Africa, and may be converted into
local currency.
Pre-arrival Information and Campus Guide for International Students - 2017
Please note: A commission fee is charged
every time you exchange currency.
Taxation
The Value Added Tax (VAT) rate is 14%
and is included in the price you see on
products. It is levied on most products
except staple foods. Students should
obtain proof of payment for all capital
items purchased during their stay to
claim refunds at the port of exit, provided
the value of the items exceeds R250-00.
Information leaflets on the procedure to be
followed are available from the VAT Refund
Administration offices at the Beit Bridge
Border Post and OR Tambo International
Airport (Johannesburg).
Electricity
City and town power systems mostly
operate at 220/250 volts, AC 50Hz.
Adapters for electric shavers and hair
dryers are obtainable locally.
Telephone & Internet
communication
South Africa has a sophisticated
telecommunications network. International
dialling codes can be found in South
African directories. A direct dialling service
connects all the local centres, except
the more remote rural districts. The
international telephone service links South
Africa with more than 111 countries around
the world. All the hotels and businesses
have fax services.
 Time It is recommended that international
students open a local bank account. It
Throughout the year, Standard Time
is a relatively simple process to open an
in South Africa is two hours ahead of
account at one of the major banks. For
Greenwich Mean Time, one hour ahead of
this purpose you would require proof of
Central European Winter Time, and seven
registration, your passport and proof of
hours ahead of US Eastern Standard Winter
accommodation while studying in South
Time. Consult the local telephone directory
Africa and a letter from the Division for
for detailed world time zones. There is no
Internationalisation.
daylight savings time in South Africa.
Foreign exchange
Banks
The closest foreign exchange facility to the
25 South African banks are able to
APK and APB campuses is available at the
accommodate all international transactions.
ABSA Bank in Annet Road, Auckland Park
Banks are open from Monday to Friday
Pre-arrival Information and Campus Guide for International Students - 2017

(2 km from the APK campus). Travellers

(09:00 to 15:30) and on Saturdays from
cheques and foreign currency can be
08:30 to 11:00. There are Automatic
exchanged at most banks, American
Teller Machines (ATMs) on all campuses,
Express +27 (0)11 476 3045, HRG Rennies
although not all banks are represented.
Travel +27 (0)11 407 2400, or at the airport.
These operate 24 hours a day.
Businesses, tour operators, airlines and
Apart from the ABSA and Nedbank hotels generally accept international credit
on the APK campus, other bank facilities cards, including Visa, Master, American
are available at Campus Square and in Express and Diners Club cards.
Melville. International students may contact
Standard Bank Melville situated in the
Campus Square Mall on +27(0)11 853 4329.

Living in S.A.
The following figures are only an estimate and the needs of students may vary.
Personal monthly expenses
Housing (depending on the type of private housing) R4 000 (average)
Food R3 000
Entertainment & transport R2000
Other R 900
Total per month R9 900
Annual expenses
Books, etc. (Annual, variable depending on course) R9 350
Medical cover (Annual, compulsory) R4 000
Clothing (Recommended for winter months in Johannesburg) R2 750
Settling-in (Recommended for first arrival) R2750
Deposit for rent (Applicable if renting an apartment) R 4000
Study permit renewal (Applicable if a student needs to
extend the study period) R2000
Total R24 850
Public transport When reporting an emergency:
The University of Johannesburg campuses 1. Stay on the line with the
are on several bus routes going to the Control Room officer
centre of Johannesburg. The APK campus 2. Provide the location and description
is on the route to the West Rand and the of the emergency
south of Johannesburg. Minibus taxis
can be hailed and stopped at any point, 3. Provide your phone number
but we do not recommend this as these APK (Auckland Park
taxis are often overloaded and/or in an Kingsway Campus)
unroadworthy condition.
Control Room
The bus routes can be found on the official Library Bridge Basement
Johannesburg website: www.joburg.gov.za, 26
+27 (0) 11 559 2555//2000/3400
Quickhelp, Transport. bskalg@uj.ac.za

Pre-arrival Information and Campus Guide for International Students - 2017

APB (Auckland Park

Emergency Bunting Road Campus)

Control Room
Information Cnr of Ibis and Bunting Road
+27 (0) 11 559 1312
International Student Emergency controlroomapb@uj.ac

Contact Procedure:
DFC (Doornfontein Campus)
Protection Services is your first point of
call in any emergency: Control Room
Near Main Entrance
Any time, Day or Night!
+27 (0) 11 559 6450/6085
Reporting an Emergency: dfcsec@uj.ac.za

What is an emergency? SWC (Soweto Campus)

An emergency is any immediate threat Control Room

to life and property that requires an Near Main Entrance
immediate response of the appropriate +27 (0) 11 559 5555
authorities (e.g. UJs Protection Services, swcsecurity@uj.ac.za
or the fire and ambulance emergency
Police Services
services.) Examples of emergencies
The Johannesburg Central Police
include serious injury or illness, fire,
Station may be contacted on +27(0)11
or crime in progress.
497 7000/7116/7535
If you are unsure whether a situation The Brixton Police Station may be
constitutes an emergency or not, contacted on +27(0)11 248 5520/5521
contact the Protection Services The Sophiatown Police Station may be
control room anyway! contacted on +27(0)11 670 6300/6401
The Hillbrow Police Station may be
How to report an emergency:
contacted on +27(0)11 488 6511/6809
You must contact Protection Services in all
emergencies. The Control Room, which is
operational at all times, will coordinate all
emergency responses and contact other
emergency services if necessary.
 27
Pre-arrival Information and Campus Guide for International Students - 2017

On
td
ek
ke
rs
 Pre-arrival Information and Campus Guide for International Students - 2017
28
 Division for Internationalisation

Madibeng Building
Mezzanine Level
Opposite Student Enrolment Centre
(Old UJ Unlimited Shop)
Auckland Park Kingsway Campus
Cnr Kingsway and University Road
Auckland Park
2092

www.uj.ac.za